Three soldiers from the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Cavazos in Texas have been taken into custody on charges related to human smuggling, as reported by U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas on Thursday.
The arrested individuals include Emilio Mendoza Lopez, Angel Palma, who is 20 years old, and 25-year-old Enrique Jauregui. Their arrests stemmed from an incident that occurred on November 27, when law enforcement stopped a vehicle allegedly driven by Palma. The vehicle also contained Mendoza Lopez, a Mexican national, along with two Guatemalan nationals. This stop took place in Presidio, located along the border with Mexico, approximately 500 miles (805 kilometers) southwest of Dallas.
Mike Lahrman, speaking on behalf of Esparza, indicated that he was not privy to the ranks of the soldiers involved or if the military had initiated any disciplinary measures against them. Additionally, a representative from Fort Cavazos had not provided an immediate comment regarding the situation.
According to Esparza, the investigation suggests that Mendoza Lopez and Palma traveled from Fort Cavazos to Presidio specifically to pick up and transport individuals who were undocumented noncitizens. Jauregui is believed to have played a role as the recruiter and facilitator within the alleged human smuggling conspiracy. Evidence recovered from Palma’s mobile device through a search warrant reportedly contained messages exchanged between the three soldiers that suggested their involvement in the smuggling activities.
Mendoza Lopez was apprehended at the scene of the traffic stop on November 27, while Palma, who reportedly attempted to evade arrest at the scene, along with Jauregui, was taken into custody at Fort Cavazos on Tuesday. This base is located around 125 miles (201 kilometers) south of Dallas.
Shane Chriesman, the attorney for Mendoza Lopez, stated that they are currently awaiting further information from prosecutors, referred to as discovery, regarding the allegations.
“Once I receive the discovery and have an opportunity to evaluate the case, we will formulate a strategy and seek to arrange for a bond for Mendoza Lopez, who remains incarcerated without bail,” Chriesman noted. As for Palma and Jauregui, jail records do not list any attorneys representing them, and they are scheduled for their initial court appearance on Friday, as stated by Esparza.
